In this guide
Upper GI endoscopy helps doctors examine the food pipe, stomach and first part of the small intestine. It may be advised for persistent acidity, stomach pain, vomiting, black stools, anemia, ulcers or difficulty swallowing.
Key Takeaways
- Long-standing acidity, GERD or heartburn
- Upper abdominal pain, vomiting or bloating
- Black stools, anemia or suspected bleeding
- Difficulty swallowing or food sticking sensation
- Fasting is usually needed for 6-8 hours, as advised.
Why endoscopy may be advised
A gastroenterologist may advise endoscopy when symptoms do not improve with routine medicines or when warning signs suggest a need to directly inspect the upper digestive tract.
- Long-standing acidity, GERD or heartburn
- Upper abdominal pain, vomiting or bloating
- Black stools, anemia or suspected bleeding
- Difficulty swallowing or food sticking sensation
How to prepare
Preparation is simple but important. Final instructions should always come from the treating doctor or hospital team.
- Fasting is usually needed for 6-8 hours, as advised.
- Tell the doctor about diabetes, BP medicines and heart medicines.
- Discuss aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin or other blood thinners in advance.
- Bring previous prescriptions, blood reports and scan reports.
Is endoscopy painful?
Most patients tolerate endoscopy well. Some may feel throat discomfort, bloating or mild tiredness afterward. Sedation or throat spray may be used depending on the patient and procedure plan.
After the procedure
Patients are observed for a short time. Eating, drinking, driving and work instructions depend on whether sedation was used and whether biopsy or treatment was performed.
- Avoid driving after sedation.
- Follow diet instructions before eating.
- Collect and review the report with the doctor.
- Call reception for severe pain, fever, vomiting blood or black stools.